| 4 mins read
Cartagena is one of Colombia’s most vibrant cities. With cartels and drug wars no longer threatening the city, visitors can now freely enjoy the culture, sites and flavours of this historic South American hub. Though founded in the 16th century, Cartagena’s roots show their reach all the way back to 4000 BC. Allow yourself the chance to explore this historic Colombian gem with our simple tour guide to Cartagena.
What to See/Where to Go in Cartagena?
The Old Town
Cartagena’s main attraction is its historic, walled-in Old Town. Here visitors can explore some beautiful colonial architecture, tour the 400 year old plazas, stroll down the cobblestone streets and visit some of the notable museums along the way (the Modern Art and Naval Museums are a few good ones!) Don’t forget to grab some local cuisine, stop into the ancient churches (the amazing 16th century Catedral) or buy a few local souvenirs in the converted Las Bóvedas jail.
Castillo San Felipe de Barajas
Another of the city’s famous sites, the Castillo San Felipe de Barajas is a 16th century fortress considered to be the most stunning castle built in the Americas during Spanish colonization. This well-preserved fortification is situated atop San Lázaro Hill, which strategically looks out over both the land and sea surrounding Cartagena. Located about 20 minutes outside of the downtown area, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is well worth the visit for anyone touring Cartagena.
Convento de la Popa
Situated atop another high hill outside of Cartagena, this Augustinian convent dates back to the 17th century. Home to a beautiful chapel, a few notable icons and poignant statue of a local martyred priest, this convent also boasts some beautiful sprawling views of the city below. A great spot to visit if you’re looking to escape the Cartagena city heat!
What to Do in Cartagena?
Visit the Beaches
One of the biggest attractions and best ways to cool down is visiting the city’s beaches. Bocagrande is the most tourist-frequented beach, with resorts, high-rises, clubs and restaurants lining the sandy shoreline. Playa Blanca is a bit outside of central Cartagena, but is considered one of the city, country and world’s best “undiscovered beaches.” Home to white sands and pristine waters, this paradise getaway is a must visit for any beach lover touring Cartagena.
Boat out and Dive at Islas del Rosario
A chain of islands located off the coast of Cartagena, this national park is a diver’s Colombian dream. Home to some amazing beaches, coral reef, crystal clear waters, aquariums and even dolphin shows, anyone with a day to spare should try and book a trip out to this Cartagena island chain.
Take a Chiva Ride!
You can’t miss these colourful wooden buses when visiting Cartagena. Once used as a public mode of transport, these brightly painted carriers are now a popular method of travel for tourists soaking up the main sites of the city. Take a quick ride, a half-day Chiva tour or even go bar hopping/booze cruising with locals on these festive, colourful contraptions.
Go Dancing
Latin-style dancing is a huge activity in Colombia and Cartagena, so when visiting the city, why not take a few lessons? Offering everything from beginner’s courses to intensive classes, bring home the ultimate souvenir that you can keep for the rest of your life!
Take a Mud Bath
Located a bit outside of the city, visitors can head for the healing grounds of Volcan del Totumo (Mud Volcano). Known for its alleged remedial qualities, visitors climb into the ‘volcano’, soak in the mud (or receive a mud massage from workers) and then bathe themselves clean in the nearby lagoon. Whether or not the muddy mixture actually heals, it’s still a fun activity outside of Cartagena.
Whether wandering in the Old City, diving amongst the coral reef or soaking in volcanic mud, your trip to Cartagena is guaranteed to be a memorable one. Just make sure you hire one of the top local Cartagena tour guides to take you around town!
Credits and License Details: https://flic.kr/p/8GbKWi (user: pedrosz), https://flic.kr/p/9WXcj1 (User: Aris Gionis), https://flic.kr/p/eebdrc (User: Robyn Fleming), https://flic.kr/p/8BxJ82 (User: pedrosz), https://flic.kr/p/5ssPH8 (User: Cedric Converset), https://flic.kr/p/21Pnm (User: James Wilson), https://flic.kr/p/8aJWbw (User: Louis West), https://flic.kr/p/9UjAHY (User: Jack Zallium)